CES 2025 | GeForce RTX 5090-powered MSI Stealth 18 HX AI launches with 18" Mini-LED display in a lightweight build

CES 2025 is in full swing, with a number of launches catering to gamers, professionals and creatives alike. Now, MSI has unveiled the Stealth 18 HX AI, a high-performance gaming laptop with premium specifications and a sleek 18-inch design.

The Stealth 18 HX AI is powered by up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor and offers configurations with Nvidia’s latest GeForce RTX 5090 GPU featuring 24GB of GDDR7 memory. Additional GPU options include the RTX 5080 (16GB GDDR7) and RTX 5070 Ti (12GB GDDR7), so that users can match their performance needs. Paired with up to a whopping 96GB of DDR5 RAM and a PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD, this laptop should be able to handle most demanding gaming and creative tasks without breaking a sweat.

The laptop’s 18-inch UHD+ (3840 x 2400) Mini-LED display is a standout feature, with 1000 nits of peak brightness, 120Hz refresh rate, and 100% DCI-P3 color accuracy for vivid, crystal-clear visuals. Alternatively, those who want an edge in competitive gaming can opt for the lower-res QHD+ (2560 x 1600) configuration with a higher 240Hz refresh rate.

Audio and connectivity are equally impressive. The Dynaudio sound system features six speakers and Nahimic 3 Audio Enhancer for immersive sound. For connectivity, the Stealth 18 HX AI includes dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB-C, USB-A, HDMI 2.1 with 8K support, and Intel Killer Wi-Fi 7.

Security and user experience are taken care of by features like a Full HD IR webcam with privacy cover, 3D noise reduction, and biometric authentication via an integrated fingerprint reader and IR facial recognition. The laptop also comes with a SteelSeries gaming keyboard featuring per-key RGB lighting and dedicated macro controls for even more customization.

With a 99Wh battery, the laptop should be great for extended use while remaining compliant with air travel regulations. Despite its large screen and powerful internals, the Stealth 18 HX AI weighs only 2.89 kilos (6.37 pounds) and measures 24mm in thickness, making it surprisingly portable for its category. MSI has clearly positioned the Stealth 18 HX AI pretty high in its gaming laptop lineup. It will be available towards the end of Q1 or during Q2 2025, depending on the model and region.